The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is stepping up national efforts to combat one of Saint Lucia’s most widespread chronic diseases as the island observes World Diabetes Day on November 14.
With diabetes cases continuing to rise, health officials are urging citizens to get screened early and adopt healthier lifestyle habits in order to reduce their risk and improve long-term quality of life.
Senior Medical Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases, Dr. Shana Cyr-Philbert, explained that this year’s global theme places people living with the disease at the center of the conversation.
“This year’s theme, Diabetes and Well-being, underscores the importance of ensuring that individuals living with diabetes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives with equal opportunities for happiness and well-being,” she said.
Dr. Cyr-Philbert also reminded the public that “diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, is a chronic disease which is characterised by higher than normal levels of blood glucose or blood sugar.”
As part of the observance, the Ministry has launched a new public education campaign titled MyPlate, a Healthy Plate, accompanied by the slogan building a healthier Saint Lucia, one plate at a time. According to Dr. Cyr-Philbert, the initiative creates space for more practical, everyday engagement with nutrition.
“The new campaign provides an opportunity for individuals to learn and use creative ways of preparing nutritious meals with locally grown produce,” she stated.
She encouraged families to “look out for the engaging live cooking demonstrations on various television stations.”
The Ministry is also emphasising the importance of early detection. Dr. Cyr-Philbert confirmed that diabetes testing continues to be widely accessible throughout the island.
“Diabetes screening is available, free of charge, at all community wellness centers across the country,” she said. She added that the Ministry is committed to strengthening support for people already living with the condition. “We continue to work towards promoting holistic care. Since individuals with diabetes spend a significant amount of time managing the condition at home, we encourage them to improve their knowledge and skills by enrolling in self-management courses offered at community wellness centers.”
The Ministry is urging Saint Lucians to take advantage of free screening services, nutrition education and wellness programs, noting that small, consistent changes remain the most powerful tools in preventing diabetes and improving health outcomes for those already diagnosed.
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